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Milind Soman, the model, actor, marathoner and timeless symbol of fitness, has officially entered a new decade of life and he’s doing it with the same effortless grace that defines him. Celebrating his 60th birthday amidst the turquoise waters and white sands of the Maldives, the ever-inspiring icon reminded everyone that age is merely a number, but energy is a choice. Speaking to Bombay Times, as cited by The Times of India, Milind reflected on his milestone birthday and what turning 60 truly means to him. “Age Doesn’t Slow You Down, Indiscipline Does,” Says Milind Soman For Milind, fitness has never been just about the body; it’s about balance, mindset and discipline. The Ironman athlete first conquered the gruelling triathlon at 50 and returned to it a decade later, stronger and more at peace. “The first time I did the Ironman at 50, it was a test of willpower. Ten years later, at 60, it became a celebration of balance — body, mind, discipline and consistency,” he shared. He added, “I’ve realised age doesn’t slow you down; inconsistency and indiscipline do. Self-respect is respect for your body and mind, which will reward you in ways you can’t imagine. At 60, I feel stronger, lighter, and freer than I did at 30.” Age Is Just a Number, Energy Is a Choice Milind believes that youth is not defined by the calendar, but by curiosity and energy. His philosophy is simple yet powerful — it’s not your body that defines how old you are, it’s your mindset. He says, “Your body doesn’t decide how old you are — your attitude does,” he said. “I’ve met 20-year-olds who are tired of life and 70-year-olds who wake up excited for a morning run. It’s not about stopping time; it’s about moving with purpose and joy.” Fitness Is About Feeling Better, Not Just Looking Better Over the years, Milind has redefined fitness goals for generations. For him, the true reward of fitness isn’t six-pack abs or medals, it’s the feeling of freedom that comes with a healthy mind and body. “Looking good is temporary. Feeling good is timeless,” he explained. “When you chase strength, peace, and health, confidence follows. People often say, ‘I’ll start when I’m ready.’ If you keep telling yourself that, you’ll never be ready. Whether you’re 20, 40, or 60 — the best time to start loving and celebrating your body is now,” says the actor. He goes on to say, “I think 60 today looks very different because we’ve changed how we live,” Milind reflected. “It’s no longer about counting years — it’s about creating experiences. Shah Rukh is redefining 60 by the things that give him joy, and I do the same. Find the thing that gives you joy — body, mind and spirit, and keep doing it, no matter what. If you wake up excited every day, 60 can feel like 40 — or even 25!” Meaning of Fitness for Milind Soman Even after completing multiple marathons and triathlons across the world, Milind’s motivation remains beautifully simple, freedom.“Fitness for me is freedom,” he said. “The freedom to climb a mountain, swim across an ocean, run barefoot, or just breathe deeply without effort. Ironman and marathons are not the goal. My motivation has never been abs or medals — it’s the joy of knowing my body still does everything I ask of it. To me, that’s real success.” A Dreamy 60th Birthday Celebration in the Maldives Marking his milestone birthday, Milind and his wife, Ankita Konwar, escaped to the Maldives for a serene, sun-drenched celebration. The fitness icon shared glimpses of his luxurious poolside brunch, complete with tropical views and a lavish cake. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Milind Usha Soman (@milindrunning) Posting a series of photos on Instagram, he simply captioned them, “60!!!!”, a fitting statement for a man who continues to prove that time is no match for discipline, joy and self-respect.